Darling Dumplin’ by Poet Lorraine Brooks

it’s hard in a world where looks are a prize
to value yourself if you’re not the right size.
For chubby young girls it’s especially true
And lots of the other kids will bully you.

If Mom calls you “Dumplin’”, and you hate that name,
It may be a reason you’re feeling ashamed.
Some people will tell you that you look OK,
But deep down inside there’s a price that you pay.

It’s sadness and lonely, and unworthiness
That causes you pain and gives you distress.
It’s being alone when the girls are all dating
And feeling ashamed because boys aren’t relating.

It’s trying to smile when you don’t feel alright.
It’s waiting for phone calls on Saturday night.
It’s hoping you’ll get all the cute boys’ attention,
But hearing the ridicule and condescension.

It’s when you decide for yourSELF that you’re fine,
That you can begin to turn water to wine.
It’s when YOU feel comfortable in your own skin
That you can begin on your journey to win.


No, it’s not easy, to want to conform
Or made to believe that you’re outside the norm.
But if you’re like Dumplin’, you’ll rise to your best
And you will decide you will not be suppressed.


Everyone’s different and all are worthwhile
And all of us have individual style.
So get out on that runway and strut all your stuff
Don’t let anyone tell you that you’re not enough!


Skinny or chubby, plump or obese,
Accept what you’re given – that’s where you find peace.

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